Nwifuru Lauds Uduma’s Appointment As New VC

Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has lauded the appointment of Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma as the new Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), describing it as a step in the right direction.

According to the governor, Uduma’s appointment demonstrated his academic track record, leadership qualities, and sterling contributions to national development, among others.

A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr Monday Uzor, quoted Nwifuru as saying the new NOUN VC has consistently brought pride and honor to Ebonyi State and the entire nation.

The statement read in part, “The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has congratulated Professor Uduma Orji Uduma on his appointment as the Vice Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) by the Governing Council of the institution.

“He describes the appointment as a testament to Professor Uduma’s outstanding academic pedigree, sterling leadership qualities, and immense contributions to philosophical scholarship and national development.

“He notes that Professor Uduma has, over the years, brought honor and pride to Ebonyi State and Nigeria through his scholarship, intellectual rigor, and mentorship of younger academics.

“Governor Nwifuru expresses confidence that Professor Uduma will bring his wealth of experience, vision, and integrity to bear in advancing the mandate of the National Open University of Nigeria, fostering academic excellence and expanding access to quality education in the country.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Ebonyi State, Governor Nwifuru wishes Professor Uduma Orji Uduma a successful tenure and God’s continued wisdom, strength, and grace in the discharge of his duties.”

Uduma, a Professor of philosophy with a major in logic, was announced as the new Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University by the Governing Council of the institution, last week.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Isah Yuguda, announced during a press conference, in Abuja.

Professor Uduma, who hails from Nguzu Edda community, Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, emerged as the new Vice-Chancellor after defeating 29 other contenders.

His appointment takes effect from February 11, 2026, following the expiration of the tenure of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters.

The new NOUN VC, Uduma, has previously served as its Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).

Yuguda described him as an accomplished scholar with strong research visibility and a well-respected presence on Google Scholar.

“The University looks forward to Professor Uduma’s leadership and vision as he assumes office on February 11, 2026.

“We are confident that his expertise and experience will drive the University’s continued growth and success,” Yuguda stated.

Prof. Uduma started his academic career as a young lecturer at the University of Lagos where he bagged his PhD in Philosophy majoring in logic.

He later moved over to the Ebonyi State University where he rose to the rank of a professor before joining NOUN.